4 ways to make the most of your summer internship before it ends

Before heading back to campus, take time to capitalize on your summer experience and leave a lasting impression on your supervisor. A solid ending to your internship can propel you toward your future and help you accomplish your goals.

So, instead of counting down the days from your cubicle, follow these tips to make the most of the home stretch.

Don’t Blow It

Final impressions are lasting. Keep up the good work you’ve been doing thus far and stay positive and enthusiastic. A faux-pas in your last week can ruin an otherwise-stupendous performance.

As the summer wanes, many interns get comfortable — sometimes too comfortable — and end up making mistake. Don’t let this happen to you. End your internship on a strong note and you’ll be well on your way to earning a golden recommendation.

Sign up for a special project

Have you always wanted to try your hand at writing a press release? Itching to do some policy work?

With your internship almost over, now’s the time to apply your skills and take initiative. Don’t be timid — your boss will be impressed with your interest and dedication. It’s now or never, so don’t be afraid to ask. Chances are, you’ll be pleasantly surprised and your supervisor will welcome the help and enthusiasm.

Take time to reflect

Take the time to think back on your performance this summer. What did you do well? What could you have done better? Any regrets?

More importantly, can you see yourself pursuing a career in the industry? Internships are all about learning and getting a taste of a given profession. Sit down with your supervisor to talk things over and reflect on your career trajectory.

Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are golden currency for future prospective employers and speak volumes about your work and potential. Regardless of whether you intend to continue your pursuits in the industry you interned in, a solid letter of recommendation that attests to your intelligence, work ethic, creativity and dedication will be an invaluable asset when applying to future internships and employment opportunities.

Be sure to approach your supervisor to request one before you complete your internship — and don’t wait until the last minute! Time is ticking.

Yitzchak Carroll is a member of the USA TODAY College contributor network and a member of Yeshiva University’s Class of 2016.

This article comes from The “College Contributor network. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of USA TODAY. You understand that we have no obligation to monitor any discussion forums, blogs, photo- or video-sharing pages, or other areas of the Site through which users can supply information or material. However, we reserve the right at all times, in our sole discretion, to screen content submitted by users and to edit, move, delete, and/or refuse to accept any content that in our judgment violates these Terms of Service or is otherwise unacceptable or inappropriate, whether for legal or other reasons.